My approach is simple. I focus on connection first. When you are having fun with your family, the moments unfold naturally. Nothing stiff. Nothing forced. Just the genuine connection between you and the people you love most.
This starts by connecting with every client before booking, providing a wardrobe for moms to take that off their plate, photographing every chapter for my expecting families so they have a cohesive first year of photos, and helping families choose the images that feel the most meaningful then turning them into heirloom artwork to be treasured for years.
I mean this with my whole heart: thank you for being here and for considering me as your family photographer.
As a mom of three myself, I know how long the days are but how quickly the years pass. I want you to know, there is no perfect age. Toddlers are crazy, elementary age kids have missing teeth, teenagers role their eyes. But do you know what? None of that matters. What matters is the love you share. Let's freeze time exactly how it is right now: missing teeth, toddler tantrums and all. It's perfect as is.
With me you're not just "booking a session". You are getting a photographer who thoughtfully crafts each image into art and the understands that these fleeting seasons deserve to be celebrated.
During your entire experience with me you can expect prompt, professional and friendly communication, stunning images and a stress-free environment.
I can't wait to document this stage of life for you!
Pre-Booking
- Virtual booking appointment. It is very important to me that you feel comfortable with me. This will make your sessions feel more relaxed and your images feel more natural.
- After booking you will receive a detailed guide designed to help you prepare for a stress-free session.
- Prompt communication, always.
Session Day
- I will bring your choice of dresses from my collection of luxury gowns.
- I will facilitate hair & makeup services for you if desired either at your home or the salon.
- A relaxed hour long session where I’ll guide you in poses and position you in beautiful light for the best quality images.
Post Session
- Your film will be sent to the lab to be processed. When it returns, I will edit your images in the signature AJDP style. This process takes about 4-6 weeks.
- Once your photos are edited, they will be revealed in private (virtual) appointment.
- Then together we'll design your album and framed prints.
Individual sessions are $1600 and include
the full digital gallery as well as access to my luxury wardrobe.
Most families choose to transition their photos from digital to print in order to enjoy them in their homes. On average families invest $1500 in heirlooms. Pricing plans are available for heirloom purchases.
Inquire for full details.
• Access to my luxury client wardrobe •
• 15 Minute Session •
• 2 Digital Image Files •
• Virtual Image Selection Appointment •
Join the waitlist
Seasonally, I offer a limited amount of mini sessions. These sessions are a first come, first serve basis and are only available on pre-selected dates and locations.
They are currenlty closed for the season. Please join my waitlist for first access to minis in the fuutre.
When light allows, I photograph with a film camera.
Like old school, send off to a lab and develop...film.
Why?
Simple answer: film allows me to be the best artist I can be.
Film gives a sense of nostalgia like nothing else. It allows me to create the type of art for my newborn and Raleigh family photographer clients that makes my heart creative happy, which in turn makes me more creative for you! Film images have feeling and movement, like life just jumps off the photo. Almost as if you can feel the moment happening.
It's the best medium I've found to deliver true to life, frozen in time moments, while retaining true colors and light as a family, maternity and newborn photographer in Raleigh. It's a slower, more intentional process. This allows me as an artist to slow down and connect with my families. Letting the moment unfold organically, and wait for that perfect moment to click the shutter.
Film is only used on full sessions.
See more film images
"In the home, photos are more than decor: they're visual love letters that communicate a child's importance & their family's history."
-Anonymous
in 20 years, How do you want to enjoy your photos?
Tell me more about heirlooms
I couldn’t be happier with my maternity photo session with A.J. She captured such beautiful, candid moments featuring my bump and our family—it was exactly what I hoped for and more. The photos feel so natural and genuine, full of love and connection.
A.J. made the whole experience feel relaxed and fun, especially with my little one involved. She has a great way of working with children and made us all feel completely at ease. The final images are full of warmth and emotion, and I’ll treasure them forever.
- Courtney